Shade Paspalum Lawn Grass


Shade Paspalum Lawn Grass

Axonopus compressus or Axonopus doesn't come under the category "grass won't grow under trees". Axonopus compressus common name is Shade Paspalum Lawn Grass, Shade Paspalum or Shade Carpet Grass. Axonopus grass is a grass that can grow in shade. This shade-tolerant lawn is in most parts of the world.

It is a versatile perennial grass native to the Americas but is now naturalised in many parts of tropical and subtropical countries. It is well-known for its dense, carpet-like growth habit, shade, and flood tolerance. It is a popular choice for shade lawns and landscaping in shaded areas. This grass cultivar requires relatively low maintenance and is adaptable to various soil types with good drainage.

As it spreads through stolons, it establishes well into a thick turf over a short time. In India, Axonopus compressus is valued for its suitability in different shady areas in residential and corporate areas and its overall resilience, making it a favoured grass for landscaping and soil erosion control. So Axonopus spp is one of the best shade grass lawns. Grass that grows in the shade under trees is shade Paspalum and St Augustine also the best. 


Fig: Shade Paspalum Leaf Blades

Contents

Why is Shade Paspalum (Axonopus) Required?

Maintaining a lush, green lawn under the full shade of trees can be a challenging task, especially in the diverse climate of India. However, with the right choice of full-shade grass, you can transform your shaded areas into beautiful, vibrant spaces. One such grass that thrives in shade and is well-suited for Indian conditions is “Axonopus compressus”, commonly known as Shade Paspalum or Shade Carpet Grass. It is, no doubt, one of the best shade grass lawns. 

What is Shade paspalum or Axonopus compressus?

Axonopus compressus, or Shade Paspalum, is a low-growing, perennial grass that is often used for home gardens, corporate companies, bungalows, recreation parks, tourism resorts, golf courses, etc due to its ability to withstand moderate foot traffic and adapt to various soil types. It is generally favoured for its shade tolerance, making it an ideal choice for shaded areas under trees and shaded areas behind tall buildings or walls.

Fig: Shade Paspalum Stolon

Characteristics of Shade Paspalum Grass (Axonopus)

Paspalum grass has a few characteristics that make it suitable for shade lawns:


1. Shade Tolerance in Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):

As Paspalum grass thrives in areas with minimal sunlight, it is ideal for lawns under trees or buildings that block direct sunlight. So Axonopus compressus is one of the best shade grass lawns.


2. Low Maintenance for Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):

It requires less maintenance compared to other lawn grass varieties, such as Bermuda or Zoysia, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners.


3. Drought Tolerance of Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):

Paspalum exhibits good drought tolerance once established, reducing the need for frequent watering and mowing.


4. Adaptability of Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):

It is suitable for various soil types, including sandy or clay soils, making it versatile for different regions of India.


5. Quick Establishment of Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):

Shade Paspalum grass can be established quickly, providing a green cover in a relatively short period for imminent parties and functions.


Shade Paspalum Grass
(Axonopus compressus)
DescriptionBroad textured leaf blades with rich, dark green colour
Shade ToleranceExcellent
Drought ToleranceExcellent
Pest & Disease ResistanceGood
Maintenance RequirementLow
Recovery After DamageFast
Heavy Rainfall SurvivalGood
Acidic Soil SuitabilityGood
Infertile Soil SuitabilityGood
Utility(i) Building & Tree Shadows
(ii) Arboretums
(iii) Public parks
(iv) Party lawns
(v) Infertile Soils
(vi) Acidic Soils


Table Showing Axonopus Features

Growing Paspalum Grass (Axonopus) in Shade

To successfully grow Paspalum grass in shaded areas, follow the tips given below:

1. Soil Preparation to Plant Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Ensure the soil is well-drained with good air porosity and amend it with organic matter to improve moisture and nutrient retention.

2. Light Requirement for Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Though Paspalum is a shade-tolerant grass, it yet requires some sunlight or diffused sunlight. Facilitate at least 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight for optimal growth and development.

3. Watering Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Water deeply, and profusely but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions to promote aeration and deep root growth.

4. Fertilising Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Apply a balanced fertiliser containing all macro and micronutrients according to the grass's needs, avoiding excessive nitrogen which may promote fungal diseases in damp and shaded areas.

5. Mowing Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Keep the grass height between 1.5 to 2 inches during mowing, as taller grass shades the soil, hampers favourable conditions for weed growth, and conserves moisture.


5. Availability of Shade Paspalum (Axonopus):
Carpet grass is available in the form of loose sprigs for dibbling and rolls of varying sizes for turning.


Conclusion

Shade Paspalum grass, with its shade tolerance and adaptability, is an excellent choice for carpeting lush, green lawns in shaded areas in India. By following the proper location and maintenance practices, you can enjoy a beautiful, luxuriant, and sustainable lawn that enhances the beauty of your outdoor space, especially under trees and other shaded areas.


Points to Remember


  • Axonopus compressus is commonly known as carpet grass, a popular choice for shade lawns in tropical and subtropical regions.

  • Though it is native to the Americas, it has been widely naturalised in many tropical and subtropical regions.

  • It is a low-growing, perennial grass with a dense growth of leaves that are broad, soft, curly, and slightly hairy.

  • It has excellent shade tolerance and thrives in areas with moderate to heavy shade.

  • It requires relatively low maintenance compared to other grass types. It has good drought and flood tolerance.

  • It can grow in various well-drained soils including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.

  • It has a moderate growth rate and propagates through stolons.

  • Its low maintenance requirements and high shade tolerance make it a popular choice for shade lawns.

  • It has good resistance to various pests and diseases with proper lawn care practices.

  • In India, it is used for both landscaping and erosion control.




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Fig: Rhino grazing Shade Paspalum

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)


Ques. Which grass grows best in the shade? Or 

Which grass grows best in shade in India? Or 

How can I grow my lawn without sunlight? Or

Can grass grow in shade in India? Or

What is the best grass for shade and no water?

Ans. For the Indian warm season, grasses that grow in some shade include Shade Paspalum (Axonopus), St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum), and Centipede grass (Eremochloa)


Ques. What is the common name for Axonopus?

Ans. The common name for Axonopus is Tropical Carpet Grass or Shade Paspalum


Ques. What is the function of Axonopus compressus?

Ans. As a covering mat, Axonopus can control soil erosion and provide some protection against infestation by more noxious weeds. It is primarily grown as a shade carpet grass in India.


Ques. What is the use of cow grass?

Ans. Cow grass or Shade paspalum is suitable for residence gardens, corporate gardens, and recreation parks under shade. It is also used for preventing soil erosion. 


Ques. What is the shade lawn near me?

Ans. You can search on the web or make a call to a famous plant nursery at your place to find the shaded lawn available near you.


Ques; Name the grass that grows in shade in India. Or What is the shade lawn in India?

Ans. Shade paspalum and St Augustine are grown in shade in India.